The first-ever ‘Walk 4 Friendship’ will be held in West Hartford on Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025.

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For the first time ever, the streets of West Hartford will fill with walkers, rollers, strollers, and dancers for Walk 4 Friendship, a joyful, one-mile walk and grand carnival celebrating friendship, inclusion, and the power of community. The inaugural event, hosted by the Friendship Circle of Greater Hartford, will take place on Sunday, Sept. 14, from 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Open to all ages and abilities, Walk 4 Friendship is more than just a walk – it’s a movement to connect people living with and without disabilities, raising awareness and creating opportunities for lasting relationships.

“This first-ever Walk 4 Friendship is about building bridges,” said Rabbi Hershel Spalter, Director of Operations for Friendship Circle of Greater Hartford. “When we come together in this way, we’re telling our friends with special abilities: you belong, you matter, and you make our community richer. Every step we take is a step toward a kinder, more inclusive Hartford.”

The event will feature:

• Opening Ceremony with live entertainment and a collaborative art project
• A 1-mile accessible walk through the heart of West Hartford
• Free T-shirts for all pre-registered walkers
• Grand Carnival at the finish line with free rides, games, entertainment, and treats
• A lively atmosphere of smiles, cheers, and community pride

For many families, Friendship Circle has been a lifeline.“My daughter has been part of Friendship Circle for six years,” said Stephanie Kudler, a West Hartford parent. “It’s not just programs and events – it’s where she feels accepted, valued, and loved. To see the community show up for our kids means the world.”

Friendship Circle teens also see firsthand the impact of inclusion. “Volunteering for Friendship Circle has changed how I see the world,” said Olivia Boustani, a high school junior who’s been involved for three years. “When you connect with someone beyond their disability, you realize friendship has no limits. This walk is a chance for everyone to experience that.”

Event details

• Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025
• Time: Check-in at 1 p.m. | Opening Ceremony at 1:30 p.m. | Walk at 2 p.m. | Carnival 2:30-4:30 p.m.
• Location: Opening Ceremony at Blue Back Square, Grand Carnival at West Hartford Town Hall Parking Lot
• Cost: FREE with pre-registration
• Register: www.hartfordwalk4friendship.com

Families, friends, schools, and businesses are encouraged to join hundreds of walkers to make some noise for inclusion and friendship. Whether you walk, roll, or cheer from the sidelines, your presence makes a difference.

For sponsorships, volunteer opportunities, or more information, email [email protected] or visit www.hartfordwalk4friendship.com.

About Friendship Circle

Friendship Circle is a social recreational program designed to assist Children – Young adults, living with and without disabilities. The organization, a branch of Chabad, pairs Jewish high school students with Children, Teens, and Young adults of all abilities. The program offers a variety of social and educational opportunities, fostering inclusion and acceptance for individuals with and without disabilities.

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